Septic Arthritis in a Patient with Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report

• DOI: 10.14293/p2199-8442.1.sop-.plyrpn.v1
• Publication Date: 2025-04-16T10:35:16Z
• Authors: Kaan Sevgi; Matthew McCrosson

Septic arthritis is a rare and serious condition that often occurs in the setting of comorbidities. This report discusses unique case septic 78-year-old male with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) coronary artery disease, complicated by bacteremia methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). The patient presented swollen, painful right knee requiring arthroscopic washout. Despite treatment antibiotics surgery, course was recurrent infection cognitive decline, ultimately linked to SCC. highlights diagnostic challenges management complexities immunocompromised patients. Imaging, synovial fluid analysis, histopathology were key diagnosis, while arthroscopy systemic utilized for treatment. Reviewing literature, we contextualize this within similar presentations SCC involving musculoskeletal infections. Prior studies demonstrate how metastases uncommon sites, such as carpal bones or knee, can mimic osteomyelitis, complicating diagnosis underscores importance recognizing atypical cancer, particularly when compounded infection, provides insights into clinical cases. Collaborative decision-making between oncology, orthopedics, infectious disease teams emphasized optimal outcomes.